Apple’s latest 2025 lineup of watches and watch bands has arrived, and with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. From budget-friendly options to luxury models, I’ve tested them all. In this post, I’ll break down which Apple Watch is the best fit for your budget, needs, and preferences—whether you’re buying for yourself or your kids.
But be careful! Apple’s “But If” marketing technique could lead you to spend more than you need. Stick with me, and I’ll help you avoid those sneaky upsells.
What Can You Buy Right Now?
Here’s a quick rundown of Apple’s current watch offerings, available on their website:
- Apple Watch SE – Starting at $249, this is Apple’s cheapest watch and a repeat of last year’s model. It comes in three colours, two sizes, and with or without LTE connectivity.
- Apple Watch Series 10 – Brand new and starting at $399, this model offers two materials, six colours, two sizes, and a variety of watch strap options.
- Apple Watch Ultra 2 – Priced at $799, it comes in one size but two finishes, with LTE included as standard.
- Apple Watch Hermès Series 10 – A high-end luxury watch at $1,249, offering one finish, two sizes, and five watch straps in nine colours.
- Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 2 Edition – The top-tier model at $1,399, featuring one size, one finish, and one strap.
These options provide something for everyone, but which one should you choose? I’ll walk you through which watch is the best fit based on your budget and usage.
For the Budget Buyer
If you’re looking for the most affordable option, the Apple Watch SE is likely your best bet. Starting at $249, it’s perfect for someone who just wants an Apple Watch without spending too much. While the Series 10 offers some attractive upgrades, including a brighter display, ECG and temperature sensors, and faster performance, the SE still packs a punch with many of the same core features like sleep tracking, fall detection, and GPS.
Plus, the SE is a great choice for kids. If you want them to be trackable and contactable without giving them a phone, the LTE version of the SE lasts about 12 hours on LTE-only mode—enough to get through a school day.
Mid-Range and Premium Options
For those with a bit more to spend, the Series 10 offers some key advantages over the SE:
- A 2000 Nit Always-On Display, making it much brighter than the SE.
- ECG and Blood Oxygen sensors, useful for health tracking.
- Faster charging and Precision Finding for your iPhone.
However, if these features aren’t critical for you, the SE might still be the better value. For athletes and adventurers, the Ultra 2 offers enhanced durability, dual GPS, and up to 36 hours of battery life.
Casetify
Watch Bands: Which One to Choose?
Choosing the right watch band is as important as the watch itself. Apple offers several options, from the Sport Loop for fitness lovers to the Milanese Loop for a more professional look. Some bands absorb water more than others, so be mindful of how and when you’ll wear your watch.
You can also check out third-party watch bands like Bandwerk, which offers a variety of premium leather and stainless steel options that might fit your style better—and at a fraction of the cost.
Avoiding the “But If” Trap
Apple’s pricing can easily lead you to spend more than you intended. You might start with the intention of buying an SE, but after thinking, “But if I want a better display…” or “But if I need LTE…” you could end up with an Ultra 2 and a much larger bill. To avoid this, set your budget first, decide on your must-have features, and stick to them.
Should You Upgrade?
If you already have an older Apple Watch, upgrading might not be necessary unless you need better battery life or specific health-tracking features. Older models still perform well for basic tasks like notifications and fitness tracking, so unless you’re craving the latest and greatest, it might be best to hold off.
Whether you’re on a budget or looking for the most advanced Apple Watch, there’s an option for you. Just remember to decide on your budget, figure out your must-have features, and avoid the temptation of unnecessary upgrades.
Now that you have the scoop, what’s your pick? Let me know in the comments!
